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Exercise

Just like we do, dogs need exercise to regulate their weight and to keep their heart in peak condition. Most dogs need to get out of the house at least once or twice a day for some rigorous physical activity. Exercise will also help to teach your dog how to socialise with other animals and humans, and this will help keep them happy and content (and it will help keep you fit too).

Dog's tip

We love a good run, or even a walk. A bit of surfing's good too (hint hint, Chris!).

How much exercise does your dog need?

Don’t worry, you don’t need to take up marathon running just to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise! How much exercise your dog will need will depend a lot on their breed, so ask your vet for their recommendation.

Walk this way

Walking is the most convenient and beneficial exercise for both you and your dog, but can be challenging if your dog wants to walk ahead of you. You may want to consider obedience training for your new pup – it’s important that training begins early in life so that walking is an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog plus it’s a nice way to bond with your new puppy and establish boundaries and good behaviours early on. Just remember – it’s you who should be setting the pace, not your four-legged friend!

Fun and games

Play fetch with a tennis ball or stick, or hide and seek with a favourite toy in your local dog-friendly park

Encourage your dog to jump over small objects in your path (but please be mindful of others)

Take a trip to the beach (in designated off leash areas)

Treat your dog with a trip to ‘doggy day care’ once a week where they can run, play and socialise with other dogs

If your dog is off the leash just remember to watch how your dog is interacting with other people and their dog’s and to keep within calling distance.

Exercise caution

During the summer months dogs are susceptible to heat stress and fatigue, just like humans. Remember, dogs are extremely loyal animals who will always try to keep up with you no matter what, so always keep an eye on them. If their tail drops while exercising with you it’s usually a good sign they are pretty tired and probably time to take a break. No matter what the weather, always offer your dog lots of fresh water after a good exercise session.

Caring for your pet isn’t just about exercise and diet,
it’s about ensuring they are properly cared for in all aspects

The information provided is general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary medical advice. Medibank Private does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information, representations or advice contained. To the extent permitted by law, Medibank Private accepts no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by readers of this website as a result of or in connection with the information contained on this website (whether by way of negligence or otherwise).

Terms, conditions and waiting periods apply. *Medibank Pet Insurance is general insurance issued by the insurer The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (ACN 090 584 473; AFSL 241436) (Hollard), is promoted by Medibank Private Limited (ACN 080 890 259; AR 286089) (Medibank) and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (ACN 075 949 923; AFSL 420183) (PetSure). Medibank acts as an authorised representative of PetSure. Medibank will receive a commission which is a percentage of the premium paid to Hollard and PetSure may receive a portion of the underwriting profit, if any - ask PetSure for more details. Any advice provided is general only, has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be right for you. Consequently, before acting on this information, you should consider the appropriateness of this information having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. You should obtain and consider the product disclosure statement (PDS) in deciding whether to acquire, or continue to hold, Medibank Pet Insurance. PetSure can be contacted by telephone: 132 331 or by mail: Locked Bag 9021, Castle Hill, NSW 1765.